Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly taken legal action against Turkish journalist Tolga Bozduman over an alleged assault claim.
Bozduman accused Osimhen of attacking him after Galatasaray’s 3-3 draw against Dynamo Kyiv two weeks ago.
The journalist claimed the Nigerian forward became aggressive and punched him while he attempted to take photos outside a venue.
Further reports alleged that Osimhen, who is on loan from Napoli, attempted to have footage of the altercation deleted by offering money, adding to the controversy.
However, the 25-year-old striker has strongly denied the allegations, insisting that he did not hit Bozduman.
“I didn’t hit the journalist; they are lying,” Osimhen stated in a video quoted by Pesindeyiz Galatasaray.
“Why are you flashing your face? You have to ask permission for an interview. I told them they had to delete my photos. If I wanted to hit them, I would have. If I hit him, he’s going to get justice, and if he lied, he’s going to get the wrath of the law.”
According to Nigerian media personality Buchi Laba, Osimhen has now filed a defamation lawsuit against Bozduman. The hearing was set to begin on Monday, January 27, as the Nigerian international seeks to clear his name.
Osimhen has been in stellar form since joining Galatasaray on loan last summer, and the outcome of the case could have implications for his career and reputation.